19/06/2026

FRIDAY | JUNE 19, 2026

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Malaysia-Russia boost bilateral cooperation

affordable, convenient and inclusive for all consumers,“ he said, adding that the decision demonstrates that consumer interests could be prioritised while supporting greater financial inclusion and enhancing the overall banking experience. Sunway University Economics Professor Dr Yeah Kim Leng also lauded the abolition of the fee. He said the move sends a positive message to the public and encourages greater use of ATM banking services. “It will also help reduce reliance on counter services, leading to improved banking efficiency and greater convenience for customers.” Yeah said the measure demonstrates how small cost savings could collectively benefit millions of banking customers nationwide. – Bernama RMAF plans to replace ageing C-130 aircraft SUBANG: The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) plans to replace its existing C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, in line with growing operational demands and the ageing condition of the fleet. RMAF chief Jen Tan Sri Muhamad Norazlan Aris said the plan is receiving special attention as out of the 10 units of C-130 aircraft that it currently operates, the earliest one received is now 50 years old while the latest is 31 years old. He said rising maintenance costs for ageing aircraft coupled with the technological advantages and greater payload capacity of newer-generation aircraft make the replacement a necessity despite their proven capabilities. “RMAF responsibilities are becoming greater and more challenging. Therefore, we need assets capable of carrying out those tasks,” he said after the 68th RMAF anniversary parade yesterday. He said RMAF is also conducting studies on replacing its multi-role combat aircraft and increasing the number of Light Combat Aircraft by 2035, as existing assets are expected to face obsolescence and maintenance support issues by then. He added that RMAF had yet to decide whether to acquire the 4.5-generation, fifth generation or sixth-generation aircraft, as any new procurement must take into account the National Defence Policy. He said RMAF is progressively strengthening its intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities to enhance the monitoring of the country’s maritime zones, particularly in the South China Sea. Muhamad Norazlan said the second phase of the initiative would involve procuring three additional Anka Medium Altitude Long Endurance-Unmanned Aerial System units. He said the Defence Ministry has agreed in principle to the procurement and is awaiting funding for this phase, which would also include electronic warfare and ISR suites. “(With the) three existing units and an additional three (from phase two), our long-term target is to operate a total of nine Anka-Unmanned Aerial System aircraft.” Muhamad Norazlan said RMAF is scheduled to receive its first P-72M maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) from Italy next April, further strengthening air surveillance operations. “Its (MPA) monitoring effectiveness is superior and it will progressively enhance RMAF’s capability in executing ISR mission sets.” He added that the responsibility for safeguarding the sovereignty of the Exclusive Economic Zone in the South China Sea does not rest solely on the RMAF but is supported by joint operations with other national security agencies. Muhamad Norazlan also said RMAF is in the final review stage of procuring a Medium-Range Air Defence (Merad) system. “The procurement of the Merad system is critical to complete the country’s air defence umbrella.” – Bernama

KAZAN: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed appreciation to Russian President Vladimir Putin for Russia’s support in strengthening energy cooperation with Malaysia, especially with Petronas. He said bilateral mechanisms between Malaysia and Russia had expanded across various fields, including trade, investment, the halal economy and finance. He added that Malaysia is also close to finalising visa liberalisation arrangements with Russia, which would further facilitate exchanges and cooperation between the two countries. Russia is aiming to abolish visa requirements for citizens of Malaysia, Indonesia and Kuwait this year. Anwar, who is also Finance minister, said the Russian Foreign Ministry would step up efforts to finalise and coordinate the relevant agreements. In his opening remarks at the bilateral meeting with Putin here yesterday, Anwar also thanked Putin for Russia’s support. “You have given fantastic support. Thank you very much. Petronas was here with your counterpart (Rosneft). (It also had meetings) with some of the other companies here.” PJSC Rosneft Oil Company is Russia’s largest integrated energy corporation and one of the largest public oil and gas companies globally, specialising in hydrocarbon exploration, production, refining and the sale of petroleum products. Headquartered in Moscow, the company accounts for roughly 40% of Russia’s total oil production. In April, Anwar had said Petronas would negotiate with Russia to secure sufficient oil supplies for domestic needs and that Putrajaya’s good relations with Moscow placed the country in a favourable position to pursue such negotiations. He said Malaysia greatly appreciates Putin’s commitment to enhancing energy cooperation and the support extended during the energy crisis, Bernama reported. He expressed hope that Russia would continue to support efforts in other areas, such as improving air connectivity between Malaysia and Russian cities, including Moscow and Kazan, to boost tourism, trade and people-to-people links. Anwar said both countries are exploring cooperation in the halal economy and finance while discussions on trade and investment continue to progress positively.

o Both nations expand ties across various fields, including energy, trade, investment, halal economy and finance: PM

Anwar and Putin before attending the Asean-Russia Commemorative Summit gala dinner at the Gallery Area of the Tatar State Academic Theatre in Kazan yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

billion (RM8.72 billion). Malaysia’s main exports to Russia comprise electrical and electronic products, machinery, equipment and parts as well as processed food products. Its principal imports from Russia include petroleum products, minerals, chemicals and chemical-based products.

In 2024, total Asean-Russia trade amounted to US$18.1 billion (RM74.21 billion) while Russian foreign direct investment in Asean was recorded at US$92.97 million (RM367.90 million). Russia was Malaysia’s ninth-largest trading partner among European nations in 2025, with total trade valued at US$2.04

Consumers, industry stakeholders laud RM1 ATM fee waiver KUALA LUMPUR: The decision to waive the RM1 fee for interbank cash withdrawals at automated teller machines (ATM) and Smart Recycler Machines from July 1 has been widely welcomed by consumers and industry stakeholders. Sales executive Lim Wei Jian, 38, also welcomed the move, saying it would benefit consumers who often rely on ATM operated by other banks near their workplaces. The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) welcomed the decision, describing it as a significant win for consumers. Its CEO Dr Saravanan Thambirajah said the waiver removes an unnecessary cost imposed on consumers when accessing their own money.

“My salary account is with one bank but the nearest ATM to my office belongs to another bank. Previously, I would think twice before making a withdrawal because of the extra charge. With the fee removed, it will be more convenient and cost-effective for me.” Technician R. Karthikeyan, 42, said the waiver would particularly benefit residents in suburban areas where ATM options are limited. “The ATM closest to my home is not that of my bank. So, I usually end up paying the RM1 charge whenever I need cash urgently. It may seem like a small amount, but over time, the charges add up. This is a positive move for ordinary consumers.”

Health Ministry administrative officer Nurul Aisyah Mohd Noor, 34, said although the charge may be minimal, the savings would accumulate for consumers who frequently use ATM services outside their bank network. “Not everyone has easy access to their own bank ATM, especially when travelling or during emergencies. Removing the fee gives consumers greater flexibility and convenience.” Nurul Aisyah expressed hope that banks would continue reviewing other service charges to ensure that basic banking services remain affordable and accessible to all Malaysians.

He said it would particularly benefit consumers in rural and semi-rural areas, senior citizens and those with limited access to their bank ATM network. “Consumers will now have greater flexibility to withdraw cash from any participating ATM without worrying about additional charges.” Saravanan said Fomca had consistently advocated the removal of the fee. He expressed hope that the waiver would become a permanent policy. “Access to basic banking services should be